Bhog Prasad – Chhappan Bhog
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Indian Cuisine |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 3, 2017 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Perforation | 13¾ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3229 Yvert et Tellier IN 2920 Stanley Gibbons IN 3373 |
| Themes | Food | Gastronomy |
As part of the sacred culinary heritage of India, Chhappan Bhog occupies a place of immense devotion and grandeur in temple traditions. Featured in the Bhog Prasad category of the commemorative postage stamp series released by the Department of Posts, Chhappan Bhog represents abundance, divine grace, and the depth of India’s spiritual food culture.
A Divine Offering of 56 Delicacies
The term Chhappan Bhog literally means “56 items”. It refers to a lavish offering of fifty-six different food preparations presented to the deity as bhog. Deeply rooted in tradition and belief, this offering symbolises gratitude, devotion, and celebration of divine blessings. Chhappan Bhog is most popularly associated with Lord Krishna, particularly in temples of Mathura, Vrindavan, Nathdwara, and other Vaishnav traditions.
A Culinary Festival of Devotion
The preparation of Chhappan Bhog itself is seen as a sacred festival. The wide variety of dishes reflects the culinary richness of the region—ranging from sweets, savouries, beverages, fruits, snacks, to main course items. The devotion, discipline, and purity involved in creating all 56 items make the offering spiritually significant and culturally enriching.
Spiritual Significance
According to popular belief, Chhappan Bhog is offered to Lord Krishna as an expression of love and gratitude for his divine grace. Many temples perform this ritual on special occasions, festivals, and important religious celebrations. It is believed that the abundance of flavours and preparations symbolises the boundless blessings of the Divine.
Symbol of Tradition and Cultural Identity
Over time, Chhappan Bhog has become an iconic representation of India’s temple food traditions. While its origins lie in ancient devotional practices, it continues to be celebrated with the same fervour today. The tradition reflects not only the culinary richness of India but also the devotion of the cooks who prepare this sacred feast with utmost care and purity.
Conclusion
Chhappan Bhog is more than a grand meal—it is a divine expression of devotion offered with love, gratitude, and reverence. Its inclusion in the commemorative stamp series honours its cultural, religious, and culinary significance in India’s Bhog Prasad heritage. It stands as a shining symbol of the sacred bond between food and divinity in Indian tradition.